Topic: Make a Plan to Be Merciful [RICK WARREN Devotional 17 May 2023]
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Make a Plan to Be Merciful
“God blesses those who are merciful, for they will be shown mercy.”
Matthew 5:7 (NLT)
God extends his mercy to us, even though we don’t deserve it and can’t earn it. All we have to do is ask for it: “O Lord, you are so good and kind, so ready to forgive, so full of mercy for all who ask your aid” (Psalm 86:5 TLB).
In yesterday’s devotional, we talked about seven characteristics of mercy. Today, I want to show you some ways to demonstrate those characteristics in your own life.
How can you be merciful?
Be patient with people’s quirks. What person in your life has irritating quirks? How can you practice patience with them this week?
Help anyone around you who is hurting. Who around you is obviously hurting? What’s one specific way you can help that person this week? If you can’t think of anybody, then you’re not paying attention. Look closer!
Give people a second chance. Who do you need to give a second chance to? How can you show that person mercy and compassion this week?
Do good to those who hurt you. Maybe you’re suffering from an old wound that you have not been able to let go of. You need to forgive and then turn it around for good. Who is that person in your life? Will you make a phone call or a visit to them this week?
Be kind to those who offend you. Who offends you? Maybe it’s a politician or a comedian that you can pray for. Maybe it’s a friend who has different views and says some pretty offensive things on social media. How can you be intentional about showing kindness to that person this week?
Build bridges of love to the unpopular. When you think of an outcast, who is the first person that comes to mind? Who spends their lunch breaks eating alone or doesn’t seem to have any friends at soccer games? What specific thing will you do this week to bridge the gap between you and that person with love?
Value relationships over rules. Who is an unbeliever you could invite over for dinner in the next few weeks? Will you then step up and invite that person to church? This is your ministry of mercy.
Think over your answers to all of today’s questions. That’s your plan for showing mercy. God has offered his mercy to you. You’ll experience that mercy in new ways when you start offering it to others.
Talk It Over
- Which of these seven ways to show mercy comes most naturally to you?
- Which of the seven ways to show mercy is most difficult for you? Why do you think that is?
- How has someone shown mercy to you? What difference has it made in your life?
God saves you for eternity.
You were made by God to last forever, and he wants you in his forever family. But there’s one condition: You need to ask God for his mercy and forgiveness. Acts 2:21 says, “Anyone who asks for mercy from the Lord shall have it and shall be saved” (TLB).
If you’re ready to accept God’s love and commit your life to him, then pray this prayer:
“Dear God, I know I’m a sinner, and I ask for your forgiveness. I believe Jesus Christ is your Son. I believe that he died for my sin and that you raised him to life. Jesus, I want to trust you as my Savior and follow you as Lord from this day forward. Please guide my life and help me to do your will. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.”
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